How to Get the Perfect Glow for Winter

The winter season is upon us, which means all sorts of fun winter activities, intimate family gatherings and seasonal photos. And while things may look a little different this year, that doesn’t mean you don’t want to look your best as you gather ‘round the tree and Zoom. With Fake Bake’s exclusive glow guide, we’re here to help you achieve that sun-kissed glow without a single ounce of exposure to damaging UV rays.

First Up: Gather the Goods

Before you get that dreamy tan you’re after, you need to pick out the right self-tanning products. Your application technique is important, but it could be argued that a self-tan is only as good as the self-tanner itself. That’s why you should start with the most exceptional products you can find. If you’re new to sunless tanning, we’d recommend starting out with the Fake Bake Flawless Self-Tan Liquid Ideal for all skin types, this easy-to-use self-tanning liquid develops in just six to eight hours and leaves behind even, streak-free coloring.

If you prefer a darker tone, try the Flawless Darker Self-Tan Liquid or Double Shot Espresso (our darkest formula). On the other end of the spectrum, if you have fair skin and want a natural look with a subtle hint of coloring, start with our Fair Gradual Self-Tan Lotion. This formula develops over time into a lit-from-within radiance, with no orange tones or splotchiness.

To make the job a bit easier, we’d recommend prepping for your application with extras like our Coconut Exfoliating Wipes, Ultimate Tanning Application Mitt and Body Mate 360° Self-Tanning Applicator. Note that certain self-tanning products come with a mitt, so you may not need to get one separately.

The Best Way to Apply Self-Tanner

And now for the fun part: application! Knowing how to properly apply sunless tanner is crucial to keeping your holiday glow looking pristine from Christmas Eve into the New Year.

• 1.Shower and Exfoliate — The very first step of any perfectly even sunless tan is to shower and exfoliate the skin on your whole body, especially the arms, legs and torso. Exfoliation is the act of removing the top layer of dead skin cells, which can get in the way of a properly saturated, even glow. Removing this layer allows the product to sink into the pores for long lasting coloring. The easiest way to exfoliate before tanning is to use our Coconut Exfoliating Wipes or a body scrub in the shower. Note that some self-tanning products may require a layer of oil-free lotion before use, so make sure to read the product’s instructions thoroughly for preparation info.
• 2.Apply According to the Product’s Instructions — Every Fake Bake product has its own application instructions since every product’s formulation is unique. Our mousses, lotions and serums are all designed for easy application, but have specific instructions to ensure a flawless results. Reference the specific application instructions on your self-tanner of choice and follow them closely. For detailed product tutorials and application instructions, visit the our Fake Bake YouTube channel.
• 3.Let Dry and Shower — Giving your streak-free, even glow a chance to dry is an important part of the process. Make sure your skin is dry to the touch before it come into contact with clothes, bedding, or furniture. Most formulas are designed to be quick-drying, so you can get back to routine fast. Be sure to wear dark, loose-fitting clothing for up to 24 hours while your tan develops. A quick shower after your tan has fully developed will help guarantee evenness.

Maintaining Your Glow Through the New Year

When it comes to any party or special event, timing is important to ensuring that your tan is at its peak for photos and gatherings. We recommend applying your self-tanner about two days before the party and avoiding excessive showering or exercising until the big event. Fake Bake products are meant to stay vibrant through bathing and working out, but excessive moisture can result in your tan fading quicker, so avoid it if you’re looking to have a deeply developed tan for the party. Light exfoliation every few days and routine moisture will help you keep your glow looking gorgeous throughout the entire season.

Glow On All Winter Long